Our Reconciliation Action Plan

Acknowledgement of Country

Arthritis Australia acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation as the Traditional Owners of the lands on which our office is located and recognise their continuous connection to land, sea, culture and Community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend this respect to all Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia.

Our Commitment to Reconciliation

Our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) marks a significant milestone in our journey to strengthen relationships, deepen respect, and identify meaningful opportunities for Arthritis Australia to embed culturally appropriate initiatives in our core business. We are committed to embedding reconciliation through our work as Australia’s leading arthritis charity, and to identify opportunities ranging from advocacy to supporting Indigenous-led research.

Our RAP sets out clear actions and deliverables that guide us in expanding cultural understanding, strengthening partnerships, and developing policies that contribute to reconciliation. Our Reflect RAP is overseen by a Working Group including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representatives and all Arthritis Australia staff members.

Breaking Barriers by Wanita Lowe
This piece reflects the pain of arthritis through woven circles and red trails, while healing begins as the outer layers break away. Gathering circles unite community through the healing journey, with native plants—tea tree, eucalyptus, lemon myrtle—offering traditional relief. The eagle and dolphin soar in a vibrant celebration of freedom and renewal.

Wanita Lowe is a proud Dunghutti and Biripi woman raised in the Riverina area and accepted in the Wiradjuri community, with deep connections to saltwater, freshwater, coastal, and rural landscapes. An internationally exhibiting artist at IDAIA Paris 2024 and 2025, she works as a Cultural Arts teacher and educator for TAFE NSW in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven region (Dharawal/Yuin Country). Wanita facilitates weaving and painting workshops at the Blak Markets, National Indigenous Art Fair, Maritime Museum, and corporate events. Her art combines traditional and contemporary practices – including weaving with native grasses, ceramics, painting, eco dyeing, printmaking, and drawing with ink, pastel, and charcoal – drawing inspiration from cultural landscapes, stories, and personal experiences. Her work reflects resilience, heritage, and a commitment to preserving Indigenous cultural knowledge, honouring her family, ancestors, and communities.

Arthritis Australia will actively seek out and nurtures partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and stakeholders, ensuring reconciliation is woven throughout our sphere of influence by celebrating National Reconciliation Week and other key cultural events and encouraging broad participation. At the heart of our approach is a recognition that our organisation has the opportunity and obligation to do more to advance reconciliation.